Protein helps seniors maintain lean muscle

Are you getting enough protein? Protein is crucial in building and maintaining lean muscle, and lean muscle mass declines with age, especially after 60.

Researchers, whose study was published in Nutrition Research, say boosting protein intake may help older Americans maintain muscle mass, allowing them to independently perform every day tasks. In their study, they found those who ate the most protein also had the greatest amount of lean muscle mass.

How much protein should you eat? Experts recommend that 10-35% of your calories come from protein. An adult woman, then, ought to try to consume about 5 ounces of protein each day. Good sources of protein include: lean meats, fish, beans, tofu, eggs, nuts, seeds, milk, and Greek yogurt.